The Athletic reported that the administration of US President Donald Trump is seeking an effective solution to polish the United States’ image and assure football fans of its security ahead of hosting the 2026 World Cup.
The United States has been experiencing unprecedented waves of violence in recent months, with 300 shooting deaths recorded last Wednesday. This could raise concerns among football fans around the world about traveling there to watch the World Cup.
According to the latest report, the Trump administration wants to host a friendly match for the Portuguese national team in the United States before the 2026 World Cup, using Cristiano Ronaldo’s presence to emphasize that the atmosphere is safe, stable, and ideal for football and fans.
It is reported that there are some negotiations in this regard between Cristiano Ronaldo, the Americans, and FIFA, so that the Portuguese can travel to the United States himself and reassure everyone that everything is fine.
Ronaldo has a good relationship with Trump, having gifted him a shirt months ago through European Council President António Costa, which read “To President Trump, for peace.”
It should be noted that Ronaldo does not visit the United States often, and his last match there was in 2017. He was also accused of rape before the matter was settled in 2022. In the coming period, it is expected that American governmental and non-governmental organizations will begin working to conclude sponsorship contracts with the Portuguese star to promote the World Cup.
